Despite the expansion of medical cannabis programs in the United States, there are many myths regarding medical cannabis. 29 US states currently have medical cannabis programs. If you’re lucky enough to live in one of these states, don’t let any of these medical cannabis myths stop you from taking advantage of the plant.

1. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis hasn’t been studied

This is entirely untrue. In fact, Israel has supported medical cannabis research since the 1960’s.

In the 1990’s, the country approved the use of medical cannabis for those suffering from pain-related illnesses. Decades later, US companies now invest in research being conducted in Israel. There is a depth of research on the topic, waiting for you to seek it out.

2. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis has no proven medical use

29 US states have medical cannabis programs. Many other countries have government-run medical cannabis programs. This alone, as well as the number of registered medical cannabis patients worldwide, prove that medical cannabis has medicinal value.

4. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis leads to more drug use

In the 1970’s, cannabis became known as “the gateway drug.” This could not be further from the truth. In fact, medical cannabis is now being used as a way to address the expanding opioid epidemic in the United States. Rather than prescribing addictive pharmaceuticals, studies suggest medical cannabis as a safer alternative.

6. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis leads to teen cannabis use

Medical cannabis programs in the US are incredibly strict. That being said, the implementation of these programs has enabled the public to more openly discuss cannabis use with teens. A number of studies suggest that medical cannabis programs do not lead to teen cannabis use.

9. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis is an excuse to get high

Medical cannabis provides relief to those suffering from a number of serious illnesses. Additionally, some forms of medical cannabis, like CBD, do not have psychoactive effects. It’s about relief, not a high.

10. Myth Busted: Medical cannabis can cure everything

While medical cannabis continues to prove its worth in the medical sphere, it is not a cure-all miracle plant. Using medical cannabis provides relief for so many people, but should not be mistaken for curing every condition or disease.